As we swayed in the dance, the flickering lights from the bonfire casting a mesmerizing glow on us, Allan approached with a cautious step, sensing the delicacy of the moment."King Liam," he softly interjected.Liam, with a slight retreat, loosened his grip on me, allowing our hands to linger in the air. Allan's subtle head shake spoke volumes, an unspoken message that etched worry across his features."Prepare the carriage. We will return to the castle soon," Liam's voice broke the enchantment of our dance.Confusion clouded my expression as Allan made his exit, leaving me to face Liam's unreadable gaze. "What just happened? Why are we going back?"Liam's fingers slipped away from mine, and a subtle furrow appeared on his brow. "I am going back. You do not have to leave now if you do not want to, dear. Stay until the end of the festival. it is good for the people to witness the presence of one of their rulers."A puzzling realization settled in, and I questioned, "But why do you hav
"Indeed, there are intricacies to delve into as the days unfold," Daniel remarked, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. He gracefully poured rich wine into three glasses, the deep hues mirroring the complex negotiations we navigated.With a lift of his glass, Daniel proposed, "A toast to the king, the kingdom, and the triumphant culmination of our collective efforts — may prosperity and unity continue to flourish." The sentiment resonated as we raised our glasses in unison."A toast," I affirmed, the clinking of glass against glass sealing our shared accomplishment. Setting the glasses down, I leaned forward with genuine curiosity. "Now, share more insights about the intricacies of the ink extraction agreement, Morphez. Your firsthand account will provide a deeper understanding than any written correspondence."Daniel took a sip of his wine before elaborating on the ink extraction agreement. "it is a comprehensive deal. Minerva will exclusively provide us with their ink resources, en
Vallen would never understand, and I would never know how to explain the depth of my relationship with Dali."But..." Vallen is left momentarily speechless.Vallen's eyes, once vibrant and full of life, now reflect a subdued sadness. The light that used to dance within them seems dimmed, and her features carry the weight of realization. it is as if a veil of disappointment has descended, casting a shadow over the enthusiasm she once had. "I am sorry you did not read the letters. I told you about Daliah and the wedding," I express, my tone carrying a mix of understanding and regret."There's no need to apologize, Liam. You were honest, and we had an agreement. I knew the risk. I just did not expect...""I could find her," I interject, completing her unfinished thought."Yes, I did not expect it. But I am happy for you. I mean, it is your mate. You must have something special," Vallen's words are sincere, even if they are tinged with a hint of sadness. In that moment, the visible melan
Daniel walks further into the garden, and I follow him, the raindrops forming a gentle melody around us. As we continue our conversation, the topic veers toward his experiences on Minerva."I had a lot of work and few parties," Daniel jests, eliciting a smile from me. The ambiance of the garden, with its fragrant blossoms and the rhythmic sound of rain, creates a serene backdrop to our exchange."What about..." I begin, but the words trail off. I find myself hesitating, realizing that Vallen's affairs are not within my purview.Daniel's expression shifts, perhaps sensing the unspoken question lingering about Vallen. He pauses for a moment, and I decide to sidestep the potentially sensitive topic."Vallen?" Daniel prompts, and I respond with a shy wave.As we continue our stroll, the rain gradually subsides, leaving behind a tranquil night. Daniel's gaze seems to transcend the present moment as he recalls, "She spent a lot of time in the library." He looks up, delving into memories. "S
As the seconds ticked by, the weight of unspoken words and unanswered questions became palpable. The air seemed to vibrate with our unexpressed emotions, creating a stifling environment that begged for release. It was a moment frozen in time, a tableau of emotional turmoil that demanded resolution."I am not okay, Daliah. I am angrier than I seem, and I do not want to continue this argument with you. So, no, not now. Get out of my way of your own accord," Liam says, his voice laced with a hint of restrained fury."Then do it, Liam," I whisper, my voice trembling with a mix of frustration and sadness. The tears start to fall, tracing silent paths down my cheeks. "Get me out of your way and leave the room. Leave me alone, crying for you. Go wherever you spend your nights and let me sleep alone again."The room feels heavy with unspoken words and the unrelenting tension between us. Every word is a struggle, each tear a silent plea for understanding. I watch Liam, waiting for a response
I turned back to face her, inquiring, "What is it?""Yesterday, when you extended the invitation, I sensed something in you. I felt your honesty and the goodness in your heart. I was not entirely sure, but I decided to bring something. I am glad I did because you've truly proven yourself to be good," she confessed with sincerity."Did you bring me something?" I inquired gently, a mixture of happiness and surprise evident in my voice."Yes," she responded, drawing closer as if about to share a secret. "Extend your hand, please," she whispered, as though our interaction was a confidential affair.I extended my hand, curious about her gift.Damaris took a pink crystal from her pocket and cradled our hands around the stone. A sense of genuine surprise and gratitude washed over me as Damaris revealed the delicate pink crystal."When you please the spirits of the forest, freely and with a good heart, without expecting anything in return, the spirits become your debtors. You are good, Daliah
As we discussed plans, Daniel appeared at the end of the corridor and approached us. The respect in Allan's greeting and Daniel's acknowledgment of both Allan and me showcased the delicate dynamics within the castle."I'll talk to the king about your idea, Queen," Allan informed me before taking his leave with a wave."Thank you," I called after him, realizing the weight of decisions was shared.Alone, I stood before the dining room door, my meeting with Vallen for afternoon tea on the horizon."I have not seen you today," Daniel observed."Busy day. The life of a queen is more demanding than you can imagine," I replied."Perhaps easier than a beta's life," he said, offering a friendly smile."Sure," I smiled back, starting to walk away, when Daniel called my name:"Daliah!"I turned to Daniel, a tinge of tension in the air. Hidden conversations with Daniel were the last thing I wanted, especially after the morning's episode of jealousy."Yes?" I replied hesitantly, bracing myself for
His words were a balm to my uncertainties, and a sense of unity settled between us. It was a reminder that, despite the complexities of our roles, our connection was a foundation to be cherished and nurtured.With a newfound resolution, I gently held Liam's face between my hands, bringing our lips together in a tender kiss. "it is okay. I'll only talk to you from now on," I whispered against his lips, sealing the promise with the warmth of our connection.Liam reciprocated with a comforting embrace, drawing me closer. "The seeds will arrive from the port soon. Whenever you want, we can start," he shared, a glimmer of enthusiasm in his eyes that mirrored my own."Thank you," I expressed my gratitude.In that moment of shared promise, our lips met in a kiss that held the essence of passion and sensuality. The warmth of the connection sent a shiver down my spine, igniting a fervor that had been lingering beneath the surface. As our mouths gently melded, the world around us faded into in